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In response to a question, Ms. Krogman spoke further about the rationale for the pool rate <br /> increases. Among other points, she emphasized that this will be a brand new amenity in need of <br /> maintenance, the increasing wages of pool staff, and to make up for rates that have not been <br /> increased over a long period of time. <br /> Through discussion it was clarified that the city is in charge of repairing equipment, removing <br /> graffiti, and the upkeep of the facility. <br /> Director Gordon outlined the specific costs of operating the pool, noting that these costs have <br /> significantly increased and will continue to do so. <br /> Councilmember Bullock shared his position that the pool rates encourage public access to the <br /> greatest extent possible <br /> Ms. Krogman responded that the rates are not meant to deter access and that they are on the low <br /> end of pool fees, regionally. She expressed her position that the proposed rates represent a fair <br /> cost of visiting the pool. <br /> Through discussion it was clarified that only the city is responsible for setting the rates. Once <br /> they are established by Council, they do not need approval by the School Board. <br /> The timeline of the rate implementation was discussed. Ms. Krogman explained that the <br /> Recreation brochure with all of the pool information is scheduled to be at the printer March 25h. <br /> Councilmember Rader disagreed with reducing rates for non-residents, while raising resident <br /> rates, as proposed. He proposed higher rates for non-residents in certain categories. <br /> Councilmembers and Ms. Krogman further discussed the pool policies regarding groups, rentals, <br /> lap swimming, and the potential of setting rates based on the pool and/or the time of day. <br /> Councilmember Rader acknowledged that it is the right time to raise fees for the pool. He <br /> proposed increasing the non-resident season pass rates so that non-residents and residents will <br /> more equitably share in the rate increases. <br /> The committee discussed next steps and scheduled a brief follow up meeting in one week to <br /> discuss further. <br /> Councilmember Bullock requested an additional breakdown of information regarding the <br /> proportion of revenue from season passes verses that from daily admissions. He also asked for <br /> more information about how rentals and swim lessons were structured prior to the proposed <br /> changes. <br /> Councilmember Marx expressed support for an increase in the pool rates. <br /> Public Works & Sustainability Committee adjourned at 6:58 p.m. <br /> 3 <br />